Safety

We take your safety seriously.

Safety is first and foremost to our operation. There are inherent risks in skiing and riding in the backcountry so choosing the right operator makes all the difference . At Southern Lakes Heliski you can be assured you are in good hands . We are the only Queenstown based heli-skiing operation that is managed by internationally certified IFMGA* guides. Our specialist skiing and snowboarding guides have the skills and ability to provide you with an exciting and memorable day in the mountains. In addition to their communication and people skills, they are equipped with the experience and technical knowledge to enhance your safety in the back country environment.

(*The Carnet of the International Federation of Mountain Guides Associations (IFMGA or UIAGM) is the highest professional and most recognised award attainable in the world of professional mountain and ski guiding.)

Avalanche safety

Our comprehensive Snow Safety programme is run by experienced practitioners with years of experience in Heliskiing , Ski areas and roading. Our operation is a member and active contributor to the New Zealand mountain Safety Councils "Infoex " - a networking programme where professional operators exchange information regarding Snow and Avalanche conditions. In the field all our guests are equipped with Avalanche transcievers and recieve a comprehensive safety briefing in their use before skiing and riding commences.

Pilots

Whether you are a frequent flyer or first timer , flying through our terrain piloted by one or our expert pilots is exhilirating. They are specialists in mountain flying and work hard to enhance your experience and safety throughout the day. Working closely with your Guide they get you to some of the best skiing and riding in the region. Our guiding team have worked with our main pilots for excess of 10 years making for seamless communication and rapport between guide & pilot, enhancing your experience all the more. All our guests receive a comprehensive Helicopter Safety briefing in the field by one of our Guides before the days skiing and riding commences.

Helicopters

Southern Lakes Heliski utilize B2 & B3 Aerospatiale Helicopters for the majority of our operations. With a lifting capacity of 1.2 to 1.4 tonne these awesome machines in the hands of our extremely experienced pilots can maneuver a full load of skiers and equipment onto the most challenging of landing spots. The power of the B2/B3 makes for faster lifts to the top of the next ridge and another jaw dropping landing & awaiting pristine run. Making accessing that ultimate run all the more breathtaking. These machines have superb visibility from every seat to take in the majestic scenery.